Dag Hammarskjöld Library

In the bustling heart of Manhattan, amidst the towering skyscrapers and the constant hum of city life, lies a sanctuary of knowledge and history—the Dag Hammarskjöld Library. Nestled within the United Nations headquarters in the Turtle Bay/East Midtown neighborhood, this library is more than just a repository of books; it is a beacon of international diplomacy, scholarly research, and global cooperation.

A Brief History

The Dag Hammarskjöld Library was founded in 1946, in the nascent days of the United Nations, to serve as a vital resource for the organization's staff and member states. Initially named the United Nations Library, its creation was recommended by the Preparatory Commission of the United Nations, which envisioned a facility that would provide comprehensive research and reference services. Over the years, the library's role expanded, reflecting the growing needs of the UN and its specialized agencies.

By the early 1950s, it became evident that the original library building, a six-story structure previously owned by the New York City Housing Authority, was insufficient for the UN's burgeoning collection. The need for a new, larger facility was clear, and in 1959, the Ford Foundation stepped in with a generous grant of $6.2 million. This donation, coupled with the efforts of then-Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld, led to the construction of a modern library building, which was completed in 1961 and named in Hammarskjöld's honor following his untimely death.

An Architectural Marvel

The library's design is a testament to mid-20th century modernist architecture, characterized by clean lines, functional spaces, and an emphasis on natural light. The structure is seamlessly integrated with the Secretariat and Conference buildings through both ground-level and underground corridors, reflecting the interconnected nature of the United Nations' work. The building's aesthetic appeal is matched by its practicality, providing ample space for the library's extensive collections and state-of-the-art facilities for research and study.

Functions and Services

The Dag Hammarskjöld Library serves a multifaceted role within the United Nations. Its primary function is to support the research and reference needs of the UN Secretariat, member states, and other official groups. The library's collection includes United Nations documents and publications, materials from specialized agencies and affiliated bodies, and a wide array of books, periodicals, and other resources related to the UN's programs and activities.

In addition to its physical collections, the library has embraced the digital age, offering a range of online resources and services. The United Nations Digital Library provides access to a wealth of UN-produced materials, including documents, voting data, speeches, maps, and open access publications. The library also produces research guides, indexes to proceedings, and a multilingual thesaurus to assist researchers in navigating the vast array of UN documentation.

A Hub of Scholarly Activity

While the Dag Hammarskjöld Library is not open to the general public, it remains a vital hub of scholarly activity. Accredited representatives of mass media, international governmental organizations, educational institutions, scholars, and writers can access the library's resources, fostering a vibrant community of researchers dedicated to the study of international relations and global governance.

The library also supports a network of UN libraries around the world, facilitating collaborative information resource purchasing and ensuring that UN-related information is accessible to a global audience. This commitment to knowledge sharing and cooperation underscores the library's mission to promote informed decision-making and effective diplomacy.

Exploring the Collections

Visitors to the Dag Hammarskjöld Library can explore a diverse range of collections that reflect the United Nations' multifaceted work. The library's holdings include historical documents, official records, and publications on topics ranging from peace and security to sustainable development and human rights. Special collections highlight significant moments in UN history, offering a unique perspective on the organization's evolution and impact.

One of the library's most valuable resources is its Index to Proceedings, a series of print indexes that provide citations to the parliamentary documentation of the principal UN organs. This tool is particularly useful for researchers delving into pre-1979 materials, offering a comprehensive overview of the debates and decisions that have shaped the UN's work over the decades.

A Legacy of Learning

The Dag Hammarskjöld Library stands as a testament to the enduring importance of knowledge in the pursuit of peace and progress. Named in honor of a visionary leader who championed the cause of international cooperation, the library embodies the United Nations' commitment to fostering understanding and dialogue among nations. Its collections, services, and resources continue to support the work of diplomats, scholars, and policymakers, ensuring that the quest for a better world is informed by the lessons of the past and the promise of the future.

In conclusion, the Dag Hammarskjöld Library is more than just a repository of books; it is a cornerstone of the United Nations' mission to promote peace, security, and development. Whether you are a researcher seeking information on a specific topic or a visitor eager to explore the rich history of the UN, the library offers a wealth of resources and a welcoming environment for learning and discovery. As you walk through its halls, you are not just stepping into a building—you are entering a space where the world's knowledge converges, ready to inspire and inform the next generation of global citizens.